What is a Dental Hygienist and What Do They Do?

Dental hygienists are essential members of the dental team, providing preventive care and educating patients about oral health. They screen patients for signs of oral diseases, such as gingivitis, and provide preventive care, including oral hygiene. Hygienists serve as a bridge between the dentist in Marietta GA and the patient, preparing them for their visit to the dentist by informing them of their findings and describing possible treatment options. They also review the areas of interest that the Dentist in Marietta GA will address in more detail. After cleaning the patient's teeth and detecting an oral disease, the hygienist reports his findings to the dentist.

To become a dental hygienist, one must obtain a license to practice after graduating from an accredited Dental Hygiene program. The minimum level of education required is an associate degree from an accredited program, but earning a bachelor's degree or a more advanced degree can facilitate career advancement and earn an even higher salary. Dental hygienists use many types of tools, including hand, electrical, and ultrasonic tools in their work. They also apply dental sealants, which are acrylic-like materials that help protect the chewing surfaces of the back teeth.

Dental hygienists evaluate their patients' oral health and provide preventive dental care services. They develop and implement oral hygiene care plans to maintain or improve patients' oral health. Regis College is one of New England's leading dental hygiene programs, offering associate degrees and bachelor's degrees in science. The University of Bridgeport is also home to the world's first school of dental hygiene, offering all degree options.

The Dental Accreditation Commission, part of the American Dental Association, accredits more than 300 dental hygiene programs. Remember that the purpose of these licensing requirements is to ensure that dental hygienists are fully prepared for this field, from clinical aspects to safety and patient care. Equipped with knowledge of the right techniques, patients are more likely to maintain good dental health. Learn more about the Regis College Dental Center, a dental hygiene education center under the direct supervision of dental hygiene educators with a supervising dentist on staff.